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Class is in session...What?!

Tomorrow is officially the beginning of journey into the unknown. There are so many things invading my cranium at the moment, trying to focus on one thing seems like an impossible, onerous task.

I have never attempted something so huge in my entire life. Pre-trip jitters are something I am slowly growing accustomed to, since they started a good three weeks ago. I suppose now would be a good time to describe exactly what I have set out to do for the next five months.

All my life I've felt this drive to engage in things that shake the very core of my humanity, things that make me come alive and as such, I constantly seek ways in which I can move my body. What better avenue to explore these feelings than through ADVENTURE?! That is why I have chosen to do a cycling adventure starting from Anchorage, Alaska down to San Diego, California/Mexican border. This is quite the feat for me considering I have never done any cycle touring in my life, but I've decided this trip is not about me but rather about the people and communities I will meet along the way. There is something to be said for feeling as though you're living in a half-awakened state. What does it really mean to be alive?

I hope that I am closer to answering this huge question at the end of my journey. In the last two years, while I was completing an Adventure Guide Diploma Program, through Thompson Rivers University in BC. Canada I became more aware than ever that I wanted to do something in my life that actually is making some small, positive difference in a world of chaos and destruction. That is why once I arrive in Alaska I have chosen not to use money. I do recognize that there needs to be some flexibility to this rule, so I have decided to bring a guitar along in the event that I am in a real pinch and will busk to make a few extra dollars.  The moneyless idea was inspired after reading "The Moneyless Man-a year of freeconomic living" by Mark Boyle. Mark, a modern hero in my eyes, took the plunge and decided to go one whole year without the use of money. Not only was his year a huge success, but he managed to do things people with money rarely achieve. He hosted a community dinner, supplying food for over 300 people without spending a dime! If he can do it, I certainly can! I also want to experiment with this idea of skill-exchange and local community involvement. There are other far more positive and sustainable ways in which we, as North Americans can live our lives and still be happy and I am determined to discover and explore our options.

On this trip, with every city centre I come to I will be contacting local elementary and high schools and speak of my journey. It is not my intention to preach sustainability or anything of the sort, but rather just tell my own story and speak of my experiences and the learning I'm doing on this journey. If I can inspire others to simply reflect on their own lives and how they are living them than I have accomplished something positive, however small it may be.

Comments

  1. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  2. Foundations are set!
    Have the best time of your life!

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  3. Totally thinking outside the box! I'm extremely excited for you Naomi. I'm with lorenzo have the best time of your life! I can't wait to follow your adventure. :)

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  4. That's my girl!

    God-Speed Naomi! I know this trip will be absolutely magical for you. Will look forward to reading about or hearing about all the wondrous adventures that await you.

    Love you always,

    Mom

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